Family Adventure in Historic Kanazawa

A Day of Hot Springs and Gorge-ous Views

Today was all about unwinding and connecting with nature's beauty. We ventured to Yamanaka Onsen, a charming hot spring town, and explored the stunning Kakusenkei Gorge. It was a day filled with tranquility, scenic walks, and delicious food, leaving me feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. It’s amazing how a change of scenery and a dip in natural hot springs can do wonders for the soul.


Experience the serene beauty and rich culture of Yamanaka Onsen in Kaga, Ishikawa, where relaxation and tradition meet in Japan's premier hot spring destination.

Our day started early with breakfast at Curio Espresso and Vintage Design Café. Elena and Miguel were excited to revisit this gem. I opted for a simple coffee and a pastry, while Elena enjoyed her usual latte. Miguel, of course, went for the pulled pork sandwich – he can't seem to get enough of it! It's a cozy little spot, reminiscent of a Seattle coffee shop, which is quite a contrast to the traditional Japanese setting. The owners, a friendly couple, make you feel right at home.

After breakfast, we set off for Yamanaka Onsen. The drive itself was beautiful, with lush greenery surrounding us. As we approached the town, I could already feel a sense of calm washing over me. Yamanaka Onsen is nestled in the mountains, and the air is crisp and clean. It’s a place where time seems to slow down, allowing you to truly appreciate the simple things in life.

Our first stop was the Kakusenkei Gorge. This gorge is a hidden gem, with a 1.3-kilometer walking path that follows the Daishoji River. The path is well-maintained, making it an easy and enjoyable walk for all ages. As we strolled along, we were surrounded by lush greenery, sparkling waterfalls, and the soothing sounds of nature. The sunlight filtering through the trees created a magical atmosphere. I made sure to pack my camera, and I'm glad I did. I took some beautiful pictures of the scenery.


Explore the breathtaking Kakusenkei Gorges in Kaga, Ishikawa, where stunning landscapes and exhilarating hiking trails await adventure seekers and nature lovers.

The beauty of nature lies in its ability to heal and rejuvenate the soul.

The gorge is known for its three bridges, each with its own unique charm. The Korogi Bridge, made entirely of cypress wood, is the most traditional, blending seamlessly with the natural surroundings. Elena was particularly taken with this bridge, admiring its simplicity and elegance. Then there's the Ayatori Bridge, a modern, S-shaped bridge designed by Hiroshi Teshigahara. Its striking red color and unique design make it a standout feature of the gorge. Miguel, ever the adventurous one, enjoyed walking across the Ayatori Bridge, taking in the panoramic views of the gorge below. Finally, there's the Kurotani Bridge, a stone arch bridge that evokes a sense of nostalgia. Each bridge offers a different perspective of the gorge, adding to the overall experience.

As we walked along the path, we came across the Kakusenkei Kawadoko, a riverside café with tatami seating and bright red parasols. It was the perfect spot to take a break and enjoy a cup of tea. We sat on the tatami platforms, listening to the gentle flow of the river and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. It was a moment of pure bliss. The cafe is open from April to November, so we were lucky to catch it during our visit. I can imagine how refreshing it must be to sit here during the warmer months, enjoying the cool breeze and the shade of the parasols.

The history of Yamanaka Onsen is fascinating. It's said that the onsen was discovered about 1,300 years ago by a Buddhist priest named Gyoki. According to legend, Gyoki encountered a Buddha of medicine who encouraged him to unearth the warm, rejuvenating waters flowing beneath his feet. Since then, the onsen has been a popular destination for those seeking healing and relaxation. The town has also attracted many famous figures over the years, including the haiku poet Matsuo Basho, who praised its beauty in his poems. There's even a small hut along the gorge, called the Basho-do, that commemorates his visit. Inside the hut, there's a statue of Basho and one of his haikus about the area.

After our walk through the gorge, we headed to Japanese Restaurant Benkay for lunch. Located in Hotel Nikko Kanazawa, this restaurant is known for its exquisite sushi. Elena and I both ordered the sushi lunch set, while Miguel opted for a tempura set. The sushi was incredibly fresh, and the flavors were delicate and refined. It was some of the best sushi I've ever had. The tempura was also delicious, with a light and crispy batter. The restaurant has a traditional Japanese ambiance, with private rooms that offer views of a beautiful garden. It's the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely meal and savor the flavors of Japan.


Discover exquisite Japanese dining at Benkay in Kanazawa - where tradition meets modern culinary excellence.

In the afternoon, we explored the town of Yamanaka Onsen itself. The town is known for its traditional crafts, particularly Yamanaka lacquerware. We visited a few shops along Yuge-kaido Street, the town's main street, and admired the beautiful lacquerware bowls, vases, and cups. The craftsmanship is truly impressive, with each piece meticulously carved and lacquered by hand. I was particularly fascinated by the process of making Yamanaka lacquerware, which involves many different artisans, each specializing in a particular step. Some shops even offer workshops where visitors can try their hand at woodturning and lacquering.

Before dinner, Elena and I decided to experience the onsen. We visited Kiku no Yu, the town's public bathhouse. It was a truly authentic experience. The bathhouse is separated by gender, with different entrances for men and women. We washed ourselves thoroughly before entering the hot spring, following the traditional Japanese custom. The hot spring water was incredibly soothing, and I could feel my muscles relaxing as I soaked in the warmth. It was the perfect way to end a day of walking and exploring. The waters are said to have healing properties, and I certainly felt refreshed and rejuvenated after my soak.

For dinner, we went to Kourin Sushi. This small, unassuming restaurant is a local favorite, known for its fresh and affordable sushi. We had to make a reservation in advance, as the restaurant is quite popular and tends to fill up quickly. The sushi was indeed delicious, with a wide variety of fish and seafood to choose from. The staff were friendly and helpful, and they even had English menus available. Miguel was particularly impressed with the hamachi, which he said was much more flavorful than what he's had back in Canada. The prices were very reasonable, making it a great value for the quality of the food.


Experience authentic Japanese sushi at Kourin Sushi in Kanazawa - where tradition meets flavor in every bite.

As we walked back to our hotel after dinner, I reflected on the day's experiences. Yamanaka Onsen and Kakusenkei Gorge are truly special places, offering a perfect blend of nature, culture, and relaxation. It was a day that I will cherish for a long time. I am so glad we decided to venture out here. It was a nice change of pace from the city.

Tomorrow, we're heading back to Kanazawa to visit the D.T. Suzuki Museum and the Ishikawa Prefectural Noh Theater. I'm looking forward to learning more about Zen Buddhism and traditional Japanese performing arts. We also plan to try out a new restaurant for lunch, Dining Tsuzumi, and end the day with dinner at Teppanyaki makibi san-an. And, if we have time, we might even check out JIGGER BAR St.Louis for a nightcap.

It’s amazing how much there is to see and do in this part of Japan. I'm grateful for the opportunity to experience these unique and enriching experiences with my family.

Until tomorrow,
Rogelio